THEWILL DOWNTOWN APRIL 26, 2026

BEHIND

STARS THE FORCES

THE

EDITOR’S NOTE

APhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

s Afrobeats continues its global ascent, the conversation is gradually expanding beyond the artists to include the ecosystem that sustains their success. At the centre of that ecosystem are the managers, individuals whose work often goes unseen, yet remains essential to every milestone achieved.

They are the ones connecting the dots between talent and opportunity, creativity and commerce, local roots and global reach. Their decisions shape not just careers but the perception of Afrobeats on the world stage. From negotiating landmark deals to building enduring brands, their influence extends far beyond day-to-day coordination; it is strategic, intentional, and long-term.

What makes this particularly significant is the shift in recognition. As the industry becomes more structured and competitive, the role of management is becoming more defined, respected, and visible. Managers are no longer operating quietly in the background; they are emerging as key players in the narrative of Afrobeats’ global success.

Looking ahead, their role will only become more critical. With new markets opening up, new audiences discovering the sound, and the music business becoming increasingly complex, the need for strong, visionary management has never been greater.

Read our cover story, which spotlights the faces behind your favourite artists.

A beautiful home doesn’t always have to come with expensive furniture. Sometimes it’s the small things that count. Placing one small item here and another there can transform a space from plain to stylish without requiring a redesign. Read how you can achieve this on our décor page.

Taraus season is here, bringing a calm, steady, and grounded energy. These individuals move at their own pace, rarely rushing, and once they make a decision, they stick to it. There’s a lot to know about this quiet, confident bunch, and we unravel this mystery in the Downtown Zodiac page.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa

Ways to Style Your Mary Jane Shoes

+2348033239132 Onah

AUSTYN OGANNAH PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writers: Johnson Chukwueke & Dorcas Akintoye

Design & Layout: Hogan Effiom

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

Office Hours The Return Simple Global Meals You Can Recreate at Home Untold Truths Confidence Is Often Just Exhaustion with Lipstick

Quick Beauty TouchUps That Keep You Looking Fresh All Day

Boluwatife Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer

Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.

5 Tips For Decorating With Neutrals

Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind - Contributing Writer

Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.

Lee Cronin’s The Mummy

Ada Obiajunwa @aaddaahh - Contributing Writer

Ada Obiajunwa writes from Lagos about the big truths tucked inside ordinary moments — friendship, self-discovery, and the quiet revolutions of everyday life. She believes in the power of presence, good banter, and decoding the unsaid. Through her fragrance studio, WhiffWonders, she also crafts scents that weave memory and emotion into experiences that feel like home.

WAYS TO STYLE YOUR MARY

JANE SHOES

Mary Jane shoes are one of those timeless footwear pieces that never really go out of style.They are simple, closed shoes with a strap across the top, and they can look cute, classy, or even bold depending on how you wear them.The good thing is that you don’t need a complicated fashion sense to style them.With the right outfit choices, Mary Janes can fit into casual days, work looks, and even dressy occasions. In this article, we will show you easy and practical ways to style your Mary Jane shoes.

PAIR THEM WITH A SIMPLE DRESS

One of the easiest ways to wear Mary Jane shoes is with a simple dress.This can be a short dress, a midi dress, or even a flowy gown, depending on your taste. The shoes naturally lend a soft, feminine look, so they pair well with light fabrics and simple designs.

STYLE THEM WITH SKIRTS

Skirts and Mary Jane shoes are a perfect match.Whether it’s a miniskirt, pleated skirt, or midi skirt, the combination creates a soft, feminine look. A pleated skirt with a tucked-in blouse and Mary Janes can look very polished and smart.

WEAR THEM WITH JEANS FOR A CASUAL LOOK

Mary Janes are not only for dresses.They also look very nice with jeans. If you want a relaxed yet stylish outfit, pair them with straight-leg jeans or mom jeans.You can add a tucked-in shirt or a fitted top to keep the look neat.The shoes help to soften the “roughness” of denim, making the outfit look more put-together. This style is perfect for hanging out, going to class, or running errands while still looking stylish without stress.

USE THEM FOR SMART OR OFFICE WEAR

Mary Jane shoes are not only casual; they can also look professional. If you are dressing for work or formal settings, they can fit in very well. Pair them with tailored trousers, pencil skirts, or simple corporate dresses. Stick to neutral colours like black, brown, or nude Mary Janes for a clean and professional look.

SALLY CHIWUZIE @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

TRUTHS

Confidence Is Often Just Exhaustion with Lipstick UNTOLD TRUTHS

Iwas invited to a bottomless brunch in Richmond, at one of those polished riverside places where the glasses never stay empty, and everyone appears to belong to a softer version of life.

There were ten of us along a long table. A makeshift fireplace flickered nearby while the weather changed its mind by the minute: rain, sunlight, then wind against the glass. I arrived carrying my own private weather.

Would my anxiety let me breathe properly? Would I have enough energy to perform normally? Would anyone notice how much it had taken simply to attend, or was that merely the insecurity of assuming everyone else was coping better than I was?

I smiled, complimented coats, admired shoes, and took my seat. Women know how to enter a room while leaving half their truth outside.

Ten women at lunch.

Perfume. Heels. Perfect lighting. Champagne. Lipstick.

Everyone looked like confidence. Confidence is easy to photograph.

Between the second round of drinks and the third collective laugh, someone asked a question that changed the room.

What makes a woman confident?

It sounded harmless enough. Yet questions have a way of opening doors people thought were decorative.

One by one, the answers came.

Some said it was learning to say no without apologising.

Some said it was liking themselves even on bad days.

realised the real answers had not been spoken aloud. They had lived between the lines: in pauses, in jokes that lasted too long, and in eyes that brightened only when everyone else looked away.

Some said it was trusting their own judgement. Some said it was knowing their worth.

All true enough.

Yet by the time I returned home that evening and sat on the edge of my bed, removing my earrings, I

One woman was being cheated on. She was cheating back, though revenge was proving less glamorous than imagined. She thought she wanted justice; what she felt was grief.

One woman was broke. The sort of broke concealed by clean nails, perfume bought in instalments, and an ability to split bills with grace. She was tired of being celebrated as independent. She wanted, just once, to be cared for.

used to be.

One woman had recently miscarried. She smiled beautifully all afternoon while listening to another complain about the exhaustion of raising twins. She ached for the privilege of being tired in that particular way.

One woman was smiling through cancer. She admitted she did not know how to cope with the anxiety. She worried about the children she loved fiercely, then quietly confessed she had never wanted to be a mother at all.

Ten women. Ten lives. Not one of them perfect.

Once the table became a safe space, the illusion collapsed. The happily married one felt lonely. The single one felt judged. The successful one felt trapped. The beautiful one felt invisible. The funny one was exhausted. The strong one was frightened.

It struck me then that much of what we call confidence is often something else entirely.

One woman hated her body. Publicly, she preached that "strong" is the new "skinny". Alone before a mirror, the only version of herself that smiled back was the slimmer outline she

Sometimes it is discipline. Sometimes it is survival. Sometimes it is pain with posture. Sometimes it is exhaustion with lipstick.

We live in an age obsessed with appearances, forever mistaking presentation for peace. We see polished women entering rooms, the laughter, the photographs by the river, and we call it confidence.

Many women are not shining because life is easy; they are shining because, for now, collapse would be inconvenient.

Perhaps the #Unshakable truth is this: we often admire resilience while mistaking it for ease, never noticing how many polished women are simply trying not to fall apart.

‘See’ you next week.

THE FORCES BEHIND THE STARS

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Afrobeats has become one of the most powerful cultural exports from Africa, commanding global stages, topping international charts, and shaping conversations far beyond the continent. From sold-out arenas in London to chart dominance in the United States, the genre has evolved from a regional sound into a global force. But while the spotlight remains firmly on the artists, there is another story unfolding behind the scenes, one that is just as important, yet often overlooked. Behind every successful artist is a structure, a strategy, and a series of decisions that shape their career trajectory. This is where the managers come in. They are the negotiators, the planners, the gatekeepers, and in many ways, the architects of success. They build the framework that allows talent to thrive, ensuring that every move, whether it’s a collaboration, a tour, or a brand deal, aligns with a bigger vision. As Afrobeats continues to expand globally, the role of management has evolved alongside it. What was once a loosely defined position has now become a critical part of the business. Today’s managers are not just handlers; they are strategic partners who understand both the creative and commercial sides of the industry. They navigate complex international markets, broker high-level deals, and position their artists for long-term relevance. This shift has also brought greater visibility to these individuals. While they may not always seek the spotlight, their influence is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Their decisions shape careers, define brands, and, in many ways, determine how far African music can go on the global stage.

This cover story turns the focus toward these key figures, the silent architects working behind the scenes, whose vision, expertise, and execution continue to power the rise of Afrobeats as a global movement.

Asa Asika Bose Ogulu

In the story of Davido’s rise from a local sensation to a global Afrobeats powerhouse, Asa Asika stands as one of the most influential figures behind the scenes. As co-founder of The Plug Entertainment and a long-time manager of the superstar, Asika has played a defining role in shaping not just Davido’s career, but the broader business approach to Afrobeats. His journey with Davido has not been linear. After an early stint managing the artist, the duo parted ways, only to reunite years later with a more refined vision and stronger structure. That return marked a turning point, one that saw Davido evolve into a globally recognised brand, with sold-out tours, international collaborations, and a stronger foothold in key markets. Asika’s strength lies in his understanding of both culture and commerce. He operates with a clear sense of direction, balancing the fast-paced energy of Afrobeats with the discipline required to compete globally. From strategic releases to high-level partnerships, his influence is visible in the precision of Davido’s career moves. In many ways, Asa Asika represents the modern Afrobeats manager, forwardthinking, globally aware, and deeply rooted in the culture he helps export to the world.

Jada Pollock

Jada Pollock isn’t loud about what she does, but the results speak every time Wizkid steps on a global stage. Stylish, composed, and deeply intentional, she brings a different kind of energy to artist management, one that blends taste, timing, and vision. Before stepping into the Afrobeats space, Jada had already built her experience working with international acts and brands, moving between fashion, branding, and music. That background shows in how Wizkid is positioned, not just as an artist, but as a global lifestyle figure. From the smooth rollout of Made in Lagos to the worldwide embrace of Essence, her influence is felt in the calm, calculated way things unfold. She doesn’t chase noise. Instead, she leans into consistency, quality, and moments that matter. Jada represents a softer, more refined side of power in Afrobeats, less about constant visibility, more about making the right moves at the right time.

At the centre of Burna Boy’s global success is Bose Ogulu, a figure whose influence blends instinct, experience, and unwavering belief. Known widely as “Mama Burna,” she brings a unique dynamic to artist management, balancing maternal insight with sharp business acumen. With a background in academia and international work as a translator, Ogulu operates with a global mindset that has proven essential in positioning Burna Boy beyond local success. She is also the founder of Spaceship Collective, the structure behind his brand and operations, reinforcing her role not just as a manager, but as a builder of systems. Her management style is deeply involved and intentional, guiding everything from major performances to global messaging. Whether accepting international awards on his behalf or shaping long-term strategy, her presence is both visible and impactful. In many ways, Bose Ogulu represents a distinct kind of power in Afrobeats, one rooted in legacy, discipline, and a clear vision of global dominance.

Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna

If there’s one person quietly helping shape Tiwa Savage’s global moves without constantly standing in the spotlight, it’s Vanessa Amadi-Ogbonna. Vanessa is that rare kind of music executive who understands both worlds Afrobeats lives in right now: the homegrown superstar energy and the international industry machine that tries to package it. As Tiwa Savage’s manager, she’s been closely involved in steering the singer’s global presence, from international bookings to brand positioning to the strategic decisions that keep Tiwa firmly in conversations far beyond the continent. Before management, Vanessa built her reputation in PR and entertainment publicity, and you can still see that influence in how she works, polished, calculated, and always thinking about how an artist is perceived on a global stage, not just a local one. Of course, working with an artist like Tiwa Savage comes with pressure and public attention, and Vanessa hasn’t been far from those conversations either. But that’s exactly the point: she sits in that high-stakes space where Afrobeats is no longer just music, but a global business.

Joseph Salubi

Joseph Salubi moves like someone who understands that not every win has to be loud. As the manager behind CKay, he’s been part of a journey that feels almost effortless on the surface, but is clearly built on careful planning. When Love Nwantiti quietly took over the world, it didn’t happen by accident. It was the kind of moment that comes from patience, timing, and knowing exactly how to let a song travel. That’s where Salubi’s strength lies; he doesn’t rush the process, he lets it breathe. His approach feels calm, but intentional. Less noise, more results. He focuses on building something that lasts, not just chasing quick attention. In a space where everyone is trying to move fast, Joseph Salubi represents a different rhythm, one that proves that sometimes, the smartest move is knowing when to step back and let the music do the talking.

Muyiwa Awoniyi

Muyiwa Awoniyi’s story with Tems doesn’t start in a boardroom; it starts in a room with ideas and conversations. Before the Grammys, before the global stages, there was a moment where he met Tems and saw something others hadn’t yet caught on to. At the time, she was working to break into the scene, but what stood out to him was her mindset: focused, intentional, and already thinking long-term. That early belief led to something unusual: instead of a typical manager-artist deal, they built a company together, anchoring their partnership in shared ownership and vision. As founder of BSB Management, Muyiwa Awoniyi isn’t just managing talent, he’s building systems around it, from artist development to distribution and mentorship platforms. Muyiwa Awoniyi is the one who doesn’t just guide a career, but helps create the foundation it stands on, turning raw talent into a global force by betting early, thinking long-term, and building from scratch.

Sean Okeke

Working with an artist like Rema means staying ahead of the curve, and Sean Okeke seems to understand that rhythm. As the man helping steer one of Afrobeats’ most dynamic young stars, his role sits right at the intersection of energy, timing, and global ambition. Rema’s journey has always felt fast, but not chaotic. From early breakout records to international recognition, there’s a sense that every move is part of a bigger picture. That’s where Sean’s presence comes in, keeping things aligned while allowing the creativity to stay bold and unpredictable. His approach feels in tune with the new generation: flexible, culture-aware, and ready to move when the moment calls. There’s no overcomplication, just a clear understanding of how to position talent in a way that travels. Sean represents the kind of management that moves with the music, not against it.

COVER

Alexander Okeke

Not every power move in Afrobeats comes with noise, and Alexander Okeke is proof of that. As the man working behind Olamide, his presence is felt more in results than in headlines. Described as a strategist and music executive, Okeke has played a steady role in shaping one of Nigeria’s most consistent careers. From hit records to the growth of YBNL as a label, there’s a sense of structure behind Olamide’s journey, and that structure doesn’t happen by chance. What stands out is the calm. No unnecessary noise, no chasing trends, just a clear focus on building something that lasts. Managing not just Olamide but also talents like Fireboy DML under the same umbrella, Okeke operates with a long-term vision. He represents a different kind of power, the kind that stays grounded, keeps things running smoothly, and lets the success speak for itself.

Janet Nwose

A rare industry figure who has stayed intentionally low-key while helping shape one of Nigeria’s most respected music careers from the ground up. As manager to Asa, Janet isn’t just handling event programs and business deals; she’s been part of the story since the beginning. The two met in 2004, and what started as a chance connection quickly turned into one of Afrobeats’ most enduring artistmanager relationships. She was instrumental in linking Asa with producer Cobhams Asuquo, a move that helped birth Asa’s debut album and set the foundation for her global sound. Over the years, Janet has become much more than a manager. She’s often described as a creative partner, road companion, and even part of the performance ecosystem, sometimes backing Asa vocally and contributing to the artist’s overall stage and visual identity. Janet has shown herself to be a long-haul builder in Afrobeats management. Not loud, not flashy, but deeply embedded in the artist’s journey. She reflects a management style rooted in trust, continuity, and artistic protection, showing that behind some of the most timeless music in Nigeria is someone quietly making sure the vision never gets lost.

Ebrus

Peter Awarieta

Ebrus Peter Awarieta, better known in the industry as “Priest,” is one of those quiet power players who sit right at the engine room of Afrobeats, shaping decisions that most fans never see but always feel. As Phyno’s long-time manager and an Artist and Repertoire executive at Penthauze Music, Priest has been central to how the rapper has stayed consistent, relevant, and strategically positioned in an ever-changing industry. His role isn’t just about booking shows or managing schedules; it’s about shaping the bigger picture: from collaborations and rollout strategies to helping expand Phyno’s sound and reach beyond core indigenous rap audiences. Before fully stepping into management, he already had his hands in different parts of the entertainment ecosystem, working across talent development and creative direction. That versatility shows in how he operates today, part strategist, part connector, part problem-solver. Priest represents the street-smart executive era of Afrobeats management, less glossy, more hands-on, deeply rooted in artist development, and focused on longevity over hype. He’s part of the behindthe-scenes structure turning artists like Phyno into long-term cultural institutions, not just hitmakers.

Benjamin Omosiete

Benjamin Omosiete is one of the key behind-the-scenes figures in the career of highlife superstar Flavour, operating within the structure of 2Nite Entertainment. He is part of the management team responsible for coordinating the business and operational side of Flavour’s music empire, from touring logistics to brand partnerships and industry relations. What makes Omosiete stand out is how closely tied he is to the long-term consistency of Flavour’s career. While the artist has built a reputation as a cultural ambassador of modern Igbo highlife, Omosiete works in the background, ensuring that the structure supporting that brand remains steady, professional, and globally aligned. He is also known within industry circles for maintaining a relatively private profile despite being linked to one of Afrobeats’ most enduring acts. He represents the quiet operations layer of Afrobeats management, the kind that doesn’t chase visibility, but instead focuses on systems, continuity, and keeping legacy artists running like well-oiled institutions.

COVER

Taiye Aliyu

Taiye Aliyu is one of those names in Afrobeats that doesn’t need constant headlines to be felt in the results. As the CEO of Effyzzie Music Group and longtime manager of Yemi Alade, Taiye sits at the centre of one of Afropop’s most consistent global success stories. His biggest credit isn’t just spotting talent, it’s building a structure around it that has allowed Yemi Alade to evolve from a breakout act into a touring, award-winning international brand. What stands out about Taiye’s approach is longevity thinking. From early in Yemi’s career, he wasn’t just pushing singles; he was shaping a full ecosystem, label structure, international licensing deals, and global partnerships that eventually expanded her reach far beyond Nigeria. Over time, he’s become closely associated with the “artistas-a-global-brand” model in Afrobeats, where the work happens behind contracts, tours, and strategy meetings rather than viral moments. Taiye Aliyu represents the architect manager. The kind of figure who doesn’t just manage fame, but designs the system that makes fame sustainable.

Kaamilah LaPierre

Think of her as part of the quiet control room behind a catalogue that already does the talking. Kizz Daniel’s music travels fast on its own, but someone still has to decide when, where, and how it shows up on the world stage. That’s where Kaamilah comes in, less about spotlight moments, more about steering the momentum so it doesn’t lose direction. Her work sits in that very modern layer of Afrobeats where WhatsApp conversations turn into international bookings, and release strategies are as important as the songs themselves. It’s coordination, timing, and reading the industry like a map rather than reacting to it emotionally. She represents a different kind of power in Afrobeats management, the navigation brain. Not building the sound, not shaping the image, but making sure both actually arrive where they’re supposed to.

Elizabeth Sobowale

A type of manager who understands that Afrobeats today is no longer just about songs, it’s about world-building. As the manager of Adekunle Gold, Elizabeth Sobowale sits right at the centre of his transformation from alternative highlife storyteller to a polished global Afropop force. Her approach to AG is less about “managing an artist” and more about guiding a creative universe, one where visuals, fashion, album eras, stage design, and rollout strategy all matter as much as the music itself. Elizabeth is known in industry circles for aligning closely with AG’s perfectionist mindset, helping translate his creative ideas into structured campaigns and internationalready projects. From major label conversations to charttopping releases like Party No Dey Stop, her work has helped position him firmly within the global Afrobeats conversation. But what makes her stand out isn’t just strategy, it’s intuition. She works in the space where an artist’s instincts meet industry discipline, ensuring that nothing AG creates feels accidental, even when it looks effortless.

Esther Isioma Nwaruocha

At Chocolate City Music, Esther Isioma Nwaruocha holds down promotions and also manages Young Jonn, guiding his transition from one of Nigeria’s most respected producers into a full-blown hit-making solo artist. That shift didn’t happen by accident; it came with carefully timed releases, smart positioning, and an understanding of how to introduce a familiar name in a completely new light. What makes her interesting is how she moves between two worlds at once: the creative side, where songs are born, and the promotional side, where those songs become culture. So while Young Jonn delivers the records, she helps decide how the world first hears them, and how long they stay in rotation. She’s also part of a generation of managers who treat Afrobeats like a global export business, not just a local industry. Nwaruocha represents the launch strategist, the person who understands that in today’s music industry, a hit isn’t just made in the studio, it’s built through rollout, timing, and how well an artist is introduced to the world.

The next phase of Afrobeats will depend not just on talent, but on the systems and strategies that support it. In many ways, the future of the genre will be shaped as much behind the scenes as it is on stage. And as this story continues to unfold, one thing is clear—the rise of Afrobeats is not just the result of great music, but of great minds working quietly, deliberately, and powerfully to make it happen.

QUICK BEAUTY TOUCH-UPS THAT KEEP YOU LOOKING FRESH ALL DAY

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Looking fresh all day is not about wearing heavy makeup in the morning and hoping it lasts. Small, quick touchups can make a big difference and keep you looking neat, confident, and put together from morning till evening. In this article, we will show you five simple beauty touch-ups that can help you stay fresh all day.

BLOT AWAY OIL, DON’T OVER-POWDER

As the day goes on, your face can get oily, especially around your forehead, nose, and chin. Many people rush to add more powder, but that can make your face look heavy and cakey. A better option is to use blotting paper or even a clean tissue. Gently press it on oily areas to remove shine without removing your makeup. After that, you can apply a little powder if needed. This keeps your skin looking clean and smooth, rather than layered and thick.

REFRESH YOUR LIP LOOK

Your lipstick or gloss is one of the first things to fade during the day, especially after eating or drinking. Instead of leaving your lips dry or uneven, take a minute to fix them. First, wipe off any leftover product. Then apply a lip balm to keep your lips soft. After that, reapply your lipstick or gloss. This simple step can instantly brighten your face and make you look more polished.

FRESHEN UP YOUR FACE WITH FACE MIST OR WIPES

After being out for hours, your skin may feel dull or sweaty. A quick refresh can bring it back to life. Facial mist is a great option. Just spray lightly on your face and let it sit. It helps your skin feel cool and fresh without ruining your makeup. If your face feels too sweaty, you can gently use face wipes before touching up your makeup. This helps remove dirt and keeps your skin clean.

TAME YOUR HAIR AND EDGES

Even if your makeup is perfect, messy hair can make you look tired. Keep a small brush or comb with you. You can quickly fix your hair, smooth your edges, or adjust your style. If you use edge control or a little gel, you can lightly touch up your edges to make them neat again.

SMELL FRESH AGAIN

Looking fresh is not only about what people see, but it’s also about how you smell. Perfume can fade after a few hours, especially in hot weather. Carry a small perfume, body spray, or even a roll-on. Apply it lightly on your wrists, neck, or behind your ears. You can also freshen up with a light deodorant if needed.

Staying fresh all day is not about doing too much. It is about doing the right little things at the right time. Blotting your face, fixing your lips, adjusting your hair, refreshing your skin, and smelling nice can completely change how you look and feel. These touch-ups are quick, simple, and easy to do anywhere. With just a few minutes, you can go from tired to fresh again and carry yourself with confidence all day.

Quiet the Noise HOW TO MANAGE OVERTHINKING

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

The mind can be a powerful place, but sometimes, it gets too loud. Thoughts pile up, scenarios play out endlessly, and before you know it, you’re stuck in a loop of “what ifs” and “what should I have done differently?” Overthinking has a way of turning simple situations into overwhelming ones, draining your energy without you even realising it. In a fast-paced world where there is always something to process, it’s easy to fall into this pattern. But managing overthinking doesn’t mean shutting your mind off completely; it means learning to take control of your thoughts rather than letting them control you.

RECOGNISE WHEN YOU’RE OVERTHINKING

The first step is awareness. Overthinking often feels like problem-solving, but it usually leads nowhere. It shows up as replaying conversations, worrying about outcomes you can’t control, or constantly second-guessing yourself. Once you can identify it, you create a gap between your thoughts and your reactions. That awareness alone can help you pause rather than spiral deeper.

FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL

A major driver of overthinking is trying to control everything, especially things that are uncertain. Shifting your focus to what you can actually influence brings immediate relief and happiness. Instead of asking, “What if this goes wrong?” try asking, “What can I do right now?” That small shift grounds you in action rather than anxiety.

CREATE MENTAL BOUNDARIES

Not every thought deserves your attention. Learning to mentally “step away” is key. This could mean setting limits on how long you dwell on a situation or consciously redirecting your focus when your mind starts to spiral. Simple habits like writing things down or taking a short walk can help break the cycle and reset your thinking.

SLOW DOWN YOUR ENVIRONMENT

Your surroundings often influence your mind. Constant noise, social media, notifications, and endless information can make overthinking worse. Creating moments of quiet in your day, even for a few minutes, helps your mind settle. It gives you space to think clearly rather than react impulsively.

TAKE ACTION, EVEN IF IT’S SMALL

Overthinking thrives in inaction. The more you stay stuck in your head, the harder it becomes to move forward. Taking even the smallest step, sending that message, starting that task, making a decision, breaks the cycle. Action shifts your focus from imagined outcomes to real progress, which naturally reduces mental clutter.

Managing overthinking isn’t about having a perfectly quiet mind; it’s about creating balance. There will always be thoughts, questions, and uncertainties, but they don’t have to overwhelm you. By becoming more aware, focusing on what you can control, and taking small, intentional steps, you begin to quiet the noise. And in that space, you find clarity, calm, and a better way to move through everyday.

ADA OBIAJUNWA

@aaddaahh

THE RETURN

Something caught her, and she let it. That was the first sign.

A small thing. Private. The kind of thought that used to get filed before it became anything. But this time it reached her face.

She laughed.

Not loudly. Not at anything she could easily explain to someone else. Just something passed through, and she did not stop it at the border the way she usually did.

It passed before she could decide what to do with it. Before she could place it anywhere.

And then she went back to what she was doing.

Nobody in the room marked it. Nobody looked up. The afternoon continued around her the way afternoons do when nothing significant is happening.

But something had.

Six months ago, she was more careful than this. Not unhappy. Just managed.

There was a particular discipline in the way she moved through the day. Efficient. Considered.

She knew which thoughts to follow and which to redirect. She knew how to keep the available space tidy.

She answered quickly. Smoothed things over before they could settle. Moved past what did not need to be lingered on.

It was not a bad life. It was, in many ways, an excellent one.

But she edited before she felt. Adjusted before she spoke. Kept the interior quiet. Organised. Available but not fully occupied.

Something has loosened.

Not collapsed. Nothing has fallen. The practical life is still there, real, working, producing something. The other thing is still there too.

But between them, something has shifted.

She pauses longer before answering now.

Not because she does not know what to say. Because she is letting herself arrive at it rather than saying the first thing that fits.

She says things she was not planning to say.

Not recklessly. Not in ways that require managing afterwards. Just something comes up from somewhere she had been keeping quiet, and she says it.

SILK

But if you were in the room, if you had known her six months ago and you were watching her now, you would notice something you could not quite name.

She is less edited than she was.

The laugh that reaches her face. The pause before the answer. The

sentence that arrived without being planned. The absence of the small correction that used to follow.

She has not gone back to anything.

The practical dream is still exactly where she left it. The original wanting is still exactly where it always was.

Nothing has been undone. Nothing has been decided.

And then she does not immediately qualify it. These are not large things.

Nobody is keeping a list. Nobody would know to look for them.

But something in the way she inhabits herself has changed.

And the strange thing, the thing she might notice if she looked directly at it, which she has not quite, is that she cannot find the moment it started.

Which means it has been happening for a while.

Which means the return, if that is what this is, did not begin when she decided it would. It began earlier.

When she was not watching. When she was busy doing something else.

Like it always does.

And maybe that is the Luxury Silk.

From Basic to Beautiful

SIMPLE ITEMS THAT ELEVATE YOUR SPACE

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Abeautiful home doesn’t always come from a complete makeover or expensive furniture. Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that make the biggest difference. The right items, thoughtfully placed, can transform a space from plain to inviting without requiring a full redesign. Creating a space that feels comfortable, stylish, and personal is less about perfection and more about intention. It’s about choosing elements that add warmth, texture, and character, things that make your home feel lived-in and enjoyable. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a lot or do too much to achieve this.

LIGHTING THAT SETS THE MOOD

Lighting has a powerful effect on how a space feels. Harsh, bright lights can make a room feel cold, while softer, layered lighting creates warmth and comfort. Adding a table lamp, floor lamp, or even warm-toned bulbs can completely change the atmosphere of a room. It allows you to control the mood, whether you want something calm and relaxing or bright and functional.

SOFT FURNISHINGS THAT ADD WARMTH

Cushions, throws, and rugs are some of the easiest ways to elevate any space. They introduce texture, colour, and comfort, instantly making a room feel more relaxed and welcoming. A simple sofa can feel completely different with the addition of a few well-chosen cushions or a cosy throw. Rugs also help define spaces, especially in openplan areas, creating a sense of structure while adding visual interest.

FUNCTIONAL DECOR THAT WORKS AND LOOKS GOOD

Some of the best decor items are those that serve a purpose. Stylish baskets, trays, or storage boxes can help keep your space organised while also enhancing its look. This balance between function and style keeps your home clutter-free without sacrificing aesthetics. It’s about choosing items that work for your lifestyle while still adding to the overall feel of your space.

GREENERY THAT BRINGS LIFE INDOORS

Plants have a way of instantly lifting a space. Whether it’s a large potted plant or small tabletop greenery, they add freshness and a natural touch, making any room feel more alive. Beyond aesthetics, plants can create a calming environment. They soften the look of a space, making it feel more balanced and inviting without requiring much effort.

WALL DETAILS THAT PERSONALISE YOUR SPACE

Empty walls can make a home feel incomplete. Adding artwork, framed photos, or simple wall décor helps tell your story and gives the space personality. You don’t need to overdo it; just a few well-placed pieces can create a focal point and make the room feel more intentional. It’s an easy way to turn a basic space into something that feels uniquely yours.

Transforming your home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few thoughtful additions, you can elevate your space and create an environment that feels both beautiful and comfortable.

DOWNTOWN ZODIAC

TAURUS SEASON

Understanding the Calm Strength Behind the Sign

APRIL 20 - MAY 20

ELEMENT: EARTH

RULING PLANET: VENUS

SYMBOL: THE BUL FLOWER: POPPY, ROSE, LILY BIRTHSTONES: EMERALD, DIAMOND, SAPPHIRE.

Steady and Reliable

Taurus individuals are known for their consistency. When they show up, they show up fully. Whether in friendships, work, or personal goals, they are dependable and grounded. They prefer stability over chaos, which makes them people others often turn to for support and reassurance.

Lovers of Comfort and Good Living

If there’s one thing Taurus appreciates, it’s comfort. Good food, a well-decorated space, soft music, and a peaceful environment are things they naturally gravitate toward. They understand the importance of enjoying life’s simple pleasures and often create spaces that feel warm and inviting.

Strong-Willed and Determined

Taurus may appear calm, but beneath that surface is a strong will. Once they make up their mind, it’s not easy to change it. This determination helps them stay focused and committed, but it can also come across as stubbornness. Still, it’s this same trait that allows them to see things through to the end.

Taurus individuals embody a quiet strength that is rooted in stability, comfort, and determination. They remind us that not everything has to be rushed, and that consistency often leads to lasting results.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Taurus season brings a different kind of energy, calmer, steadier, and more grounded. Born between April 20 and May 20, Taurus individuals are known for their strong sense of stability and quiet confidence. They may not always be the loudest in the room, but their presence is often felt in more subtle, lasting ways.

Ruled by comfort and consistency, Taurus people tend to value what feels real and dependable. They move at their own pace, rarely rushing into decisions, and once they commit to something, they stick with it. This makes them one of the most reliable signs of the zodiac.

SIMPLE GLOBAL MEALS YOU CAN RECREATE AT HOME BON APPÉTIT

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Exploring global cuisine doesn’t always require a passport or a reservation at a high-end restaurant. Sometimes, all it takes is your kitchen, a few ingredients, and the willingness to try something new. Across different cultures, food tells stories of tradition, comfort, and creativity. The beauty of it all is that many of these meals, often perceived as complex, can actually be simplified for everyday cooking. Bringing international flavours into your home is not just about taste, it’s about experience. It allows you to step into different cultures, experiment with new techniques, and break away from routine meals. The best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to make it happen.

ITALIAN COMFORT: CREAMY RISOTTO SIMPLICITY

Instead of the usual pasta dishes, risotto offers a more refined but still accessible take on Italian cooking. Made with short-grain rice, broth, onions, and a touch of cheese, it delivers a rich, creamy texture without needing heavy ingredients. You can keep it simple or add mushrooms, vegetables, or seafood for extra depth. It’s a comforting dish that feels elevated but is surprisingly doable at home.

CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST: LIGHT AND SATISFYING OPTIONS

Sometimes, global meals don’t have to be heavy. A continental-style breakfast featuring toast, eggs, fruits, and coffee offers a lighter but equally enjoyable experience. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for slow mornings, giving you a chance to enjoy food in a more relaxed, intentional way.

ASIAN FLAVOURS: QUICK STIR-FRY MAGIC

Across many Asian cuisines, stir-frying is a quick and practical way to create flavourful meals. With vegetables, protein, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of spice, you can prepare a balanced dish in minutes. The key is high heat and timing, keeping everything moving in the pan to lock in flavour and texture.

MIDDLE EASTERN TOUCH: FLAVOURFUL RICE AND GRILLS

Middle Eastern meals often combine fragrant rice with well-seasoned grilled meats or vegetables. Simple spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic can transform everyday ingredients into something rich and aromatic. This style of cooking is perfect for sharing, bringing a sense of warmth and connection to the table. It’s hearty, flavourful, and surprisingly easy to recreate.

MEXICAN

VIBES: FLAVOURFUL ELOTE (STREET CORN)

Move beyond tacos and discover elote, a popular Mexican street food that’s both simple and packed with flavour. Grilled corn on the cob is coated with a mix of mayonnaise, cheese, lime juice, and chilli powder, creating a bold combination of creamy, tangy, and spicy notes. It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require complicated ingredients. The balance of flavours makes it stand out, turning something as basic as corn into a memorable dish.

Food has a unique way of connecting people across cultures, and bringing global meals into your home is one of the simplest ways to experience that connection. With a few ingredients and a bit of curiosity, your kitchen can become a gateway to the world, one meal at a time.

cassy’s chronicles

OFFICE HOURS

Ihave had sex everywhere, but during my 9–5? I never thought that would happen.

His name was Emeka. Senior Account Manager. The kind of man who wore an agbada to the Christmas party and still somehow looked better than every other man in the room.

We had been doing this thing; this almost thing, for three months. Stolen glances during Monday meetings. Fingers brushing

when we both reached for the same file. Lunch breaks that stretched too long, with excuses nobody really believed.

It was already evening, almost closing hours. Most people had gone home, but I stayed back to sort out files for a proposal due the next day. I was done and just needed to make some photocopies when the machine jammed — as it always did. I was struggling with it alone when Emeka

appeared behind me.

He leaned over to check the paper tray, and suddenly his cologne was everywhere. That warm, cedar smell that had been quietly destroying my professionalism since January.

“Let me,” he said.

He fixed it in thirty seconds. Of course he did.

We stood there after, too close, the machine humming between us like it was trying to fill the silence.

“Temi,” he said.

And I, a whole 26-year-old woman with a performance review next month and a mother who prays for her daily, said, “The supply room.”

The next twenty minutes were the most irresponsible of my career.

It wasn’t glamorous. There was a mop bucket. Reams of A4 paper stacked unevenly. A box of staplers pressing into my back. My heel caught on something twice.

At one point, Emeka whispered, “Wait… wait,” because he thought he heard footsteps, and we both froze, like two children playing a very adult game of hideand-seek. For those twenty minutes, I forgot everything that wasn’t him. Forgot the office. Forgot tomorrow. Forgot the version of myself that always tries to get things right.

After, we fixed ourselves up in that small space, laughing quietly, not quite meeting each other’s eyes. My mascara had done something criminal. His collar needed adjusting. I fixed it without thinking, the way you do when something already feels familiar.

“This was…” he started.

“Don’t say something stupid,” I said.

“I was going to say unexpected,” he replied. When we stepped out, the office was empty. Completely. Just us.

He held my hand as we walked back to my desk, like it was the most normal thing in the world.

He laughed when I picked up a spreadsheet, pretending to work.

“I know your mind is not on that thing,” he said.

He was right.

I had no idea what whatever we just did meant, or where it was going. I didn’t even know if I should be thinking about consequences.

But I knew one thing for sure: I liked him.

And I wanted him again.

Like he could read my mind, he asked if I’d be free for lunch during the weekend.

I said yes before he finished the sentence.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

Lee Cronin’s The Mummy

You’re probably wondering who Lee Cronin is. The Irish filmmaker curiously got his name in the title Lee Cronin’s The Mummy, despite only having made two previous features (one of them being a hit Evil Dead sequel). That kind of possessive signature is typically only afforded to filmmakers whose brand has widespread recognition (John Carpenter, Tim Burton, Wes Craven, Guillermo del Toro and Tyler Perry) or titles that risk copyright infringement (Lee Daniels’ The Butler is the result of a title challenge from Warner Bros., the studio releasing Lee Cronin’s The Mummy).

Cronin is a purveyor of gore – he finds oh so many ways to make us squirm, not in terror but disgust. He’s also an adept visual stylist. There’s an appealing enough film grammar to his movie about a mummified child, with fun shot choices and clever edits, that you can reasonably argue a sentient filmmaker is, in fact, putting his personal stamp on this movie.

However, the rationale behind the title’s signature seems less about premature auteur branding and more about audiences expecting another movie called The Mummy to be like the ones starring Brendan Fraser as an Indiana Jones-like figure, or the aborted attempt at rebooting the franchise with the disastrous 2017 Tom Cruise movie.

Not enough people remember the franchise that began in 1932 with Boris Karloff are to worry about confusion with those movies – not even Lee Cronin, it seems. His Imhotep-free version feels like it’s trying to get away from every mummy movie lurking before it; only an Egyptian tomb, bandages and an ancient curse connect it to that mythology. We didn’t even need “mummy” in the title, since Cronin’s version really made a mess of an Exorcist movie that also crams in bits from Don’t Look Now, Hereditary and The Evil Dead.

Much like The Exorcist, the bulk of Lee Cronin’s The Mummy involves parents trying to figure out what’s wrong with their daughter, the one with the rotting flesh tied down in her bedroom. In this case, the daughter, Katie (played by Emily Mitchell as a child and Natalie Grace as a mummy), is a kidnap victim. She’s plucked from her backyard in Egypt, where her father, Charlie (Midsommar’s Jack Reynor), is on

assignment as a television news reporter.

Several years later, Katie is discovered, imprisoned in a tomb that, for reasons never convincingly explained, is being transported in a plane that ends up nosediving into the ground. The way Cronin frames the plane crash in the distant background, intruding as an unsuspecting bystander fixes his bicycle, looks great, and cleverly avoids poring over details.

Back to Katie, who is in a near catatonic state, save for occasional violent outbursts. Her decayed form, covered in bandages imprinted with ancient texts, doesn’t inspire enough questions from the Egyptian authorities. They promptly and improbably return Katie to her family, who are now living in New Mexico, hoping the comforts of home will help her heal.

Cronin finds appealing ways early on to introduce the family dynamics. Raynor, alongside Laia Costa as his wife Larissa, Veronica Falcón as her mother and the precocious bickering kids, have a playful rapport that feels lived-in and familiar. And Cronin lends them a personal touch, like when grandma pops out her dentures to amuse the children, which effectively turns into a nightmarish gag later.

The filmmaking also moves through the story with a witty savagery, like when a mummy, banging against a tomb, cuts to a father tapping on a coffee table to get his daughter’s attention; or how the early police investigation into Katie’s kidnapping is interrupted by a “Breaking News” report. You’d assume the news is going to be about Katie. It turns out to be a weather update years later, an amusingly vicious way to collapse time, and all the grief contained within it.

Unfortunately, that grief is largely left unexplored when Katie, as a living and breathing corpse, is returned to her family, and the movie tends to more ghoulish business. What’s missing between every moment that has us clawing at armrests –like a pedicure scene that goes hideously wrong – are emotional stakes.

Parents seeking comfort in death to stay close to a lost child, as in Don’t Look Now, or being emotionally exhausted providing care in impossible circumstances, as in The Exorcist, feel like items being checked off in Lee Cronin’s The Mummy, not genuinely felt or grappled with.

In a movie that only superficially distinguishes itself, with its title most of all, these are mummified inspirations, preserved in form but not spirit.

Rating:5.5/10

Scan

Iamnot sure I ever saw the original series finale of Malcolm in the Middle. It felt like one of those shows that simply ran forever — seven seasons, then reruns, then streaming — and when they announced a revival, it almost felt too soon, notwithstanding Bryan Cranston’s intervening Breaking Bad years.

temperamental state of his youth anyway.

But it’s been two decades. And now it’s back with four new episodes centred on Hal and Lois’s 40th anniversary, and that feels right. A full-on reboot might just dissolve unnoticeably into the blur of all those original seasons. The novelty would wear off, and before you knew it, we’d be three seasons deep into a late-2020s series with a decidedly 2000s sensibility — and not in a good way.

That’s part of what makes Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair work so well. It makes no attempt to update its sensibility. Everyone is 20 years older, of course, and even Lois’s positive pregnancy test from the series finale has materialised as Kelly, a wise-beyond-their-years non-binary teenager. But the brand of joke hasn’t changed: we still see entirely too much of Hal’s body; he’s still obsessed with his wife; Reese still runs pranks; Francis is still a screwup (now with a pregnant wife); and Dewey, well, he’s played by someone else entirely.

And then there’s Malcolm, who has spent the last many years avoiding the “middle” by moving far far away, becoming a single father (the mother left after three days), acquiring a great girlfriend, and essentially constructing a secret life far from his family — whom he refuses to see, lest he revert into the temperamental state of his youth. Only he keeps finding ways to revert to the

The first three episodes bounce between Malcolm, his daughter (a Malcolm-like outsider at school) and girlfriend back in his city, and home base, where Dewey and Kelly are revenge-pranking each other, Francis is angling for his mother’s affection, and Lois is orchestrating the 40th anniversary party. Hal is banned from helping on the day of the party, so he spends the lead-up love-bombing a

mostly exasperated Lois with enormous, semi-destructive romantic gestures. Same as it ever was — except that the fourth episode, set at the party itself, is genuinely touching in a way I wasn’t prepared for. Malcolm in the Middle-esque to the end, but I think I may have actually teared up.

I won’t give too much away, except to say that most of the living supporting cast makes an appearance (yes, even Stevie), and it all feels like old times — only Hal and Lois are older and greyer, while the kids are adults still mostly acting like their younger selves. At just four 25-minute episodes, the revival gets in, gets out, and feels like exactly the kind of treat that knows better than to overstay its welcome.